Bad Breath

For the millions of Americans who suffer from it, bad breath is an extremely embarrassing problem that detracts from a person's confidence. This condition can be a temporary or chronic problem. Regardless of how severe it is, there are important facts you should know, as well as treatments available, that can eliminate bad breath.

How Bad Breath Occurs
Bad breath occurs when sulfur compounds are produced in the body and released into the air. The most common source of this sulfur is anaerobic (without oxygen) bacteria that live in the grooves or fibers at the back of the tongue. These bacteria produce the sulfur that gives off an unpleasant smell. This frequently occurs when the mouth is dry because it creates an ideal environment for anaerobic bacteria to thrive. Sulfur compounds are also produced when certain types of food are consumed. They make their way into the bloodstream and then to the lungs where it is excreted into the air we exhale.

Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath is caused by many factors. Normally, saliva helps wash away the natural buildup of bacteria in the mouth and on the tongue. Yet, when saliva sits on the back of the tongue and is digested by bacteria, it shows up as a white film on the tongue. This is a major source of bad breath. Bad breath is also caused by postnasal drip, a condition where the back of the tongue and throat accumulate high amounts of protein, which bacteria thrive on. Foods that are high in protein or acidity also cause bad breath; foods such as fish, milk and cheese, or coffee. Dieting or fasting, which involve a low intake of calories, causes bad breath by reducing the saliva in the mouth. Contrary to popular belief, the stomach does not cause bad breath.

More Serious Causes
More persistent problems with unpleasant breath can indicate diseases such as diabetes, liver dysfunction, pulmonary disease, and respiratory disease. Periodontal pockets, the spaces that form between the teeth and gums, are another source of bad breath. These pockets, which occur in the latter stage of periodontal disease, create spaces for bacteria to grow, and give off a chronic unpleasant odor. Dental work may be required in order to remove these pockets of bacteria. Periodontal disease is detected by the presence of bleeding gums, loose teeth, receding gums, or pain when chewing. For more information on this condition, please refer to the Patient Education Library category entitled Periodontal Disease.

Prevention
Proper oral hygiene eliminates many cases of bad breath. Daily brushing and flossing removes the plaque and bacteria that often cause bad breath. While brushing, take special care to thoroughly brush the back of the tongue where bacteria normally collects. Mints and mouthwashes can hide bad breath, but do not eliminate this condition. Avoid foods that have powerful odors and drink lots of water to insure that the mouth is cleansed and full of oxygen (an environment in which bacteria do not thrive). For information on current treatments, contact a dentist in your area regarding current products on the market that can eliminate bad breath.